Kolida Babo – Spirits Of Mauronoros: A Deep Spiritual Jazz Journey from Greece

The critically acclaimed Greek woodwind duo, Kolida Babo, is set to release their much-anticipated second full-length album, Spirits of Mauronoros, on 27th September through Veego Records. This release promises to be a unique and deeply spiritual jazz offering, showcasing the duo’s distinctive blend of ancient Greek and Armenian folk traditions, abstract electronics, and free jazz.

Kolida Babo is a collaboration between two talented musicians from different regions of Greece. Socratis Votskos hails from Pella, while Harris P. is based in Athens. Their creative partnership began during the folk rituals of “Kolida Babo” in northern Greece in 2013, where they recorded their self-titled debut album in live, improvised sessions. The duo’s debut, released in 2019 by MIC Records in London, received widespread acclaim for its fusion of ancient musical traditions with modern jazz experimentation. Their subsequent releases, including contributions to Jazzman Records and soundtracks for documentaries, have further solidified their reputation in the global jazz scene. They’ve earned support from influential platforms such as BBC 6Music, NTS Radio, and WorldWide FM, and have performed at prestigious festivals across Europe, including CTM, Archipelago Festival, and Vinterjazz Festival.

Spirits of Mauronoros is a deeply evocative exploration of an abandoned village in northern Epirus, Greece, near the Greek-Albanian border. The album is a tribute to Mauronoros, a once-thriving settlement that now stands as a symbol of the economic and cultural shifts that have shaped Greece over the past century. The duo delves into the haunting remnants of this village, blending the traditional sounds of the region with modern urban influences, creating a sonic dialogue that transcends time and place.

Through their music, Kolida Babo captures the tension between the quiet, forgotten rural landscapes and the chaotic energy of urban life. Spirits of Mauronoros invites listeners on a journey through the echoes of a village left behind, encouraging reflection on the complex relationship between tradition and modernity. The album serves as a testament to the duo’s ability to merge the old with the new, creating a soundscape that feels both timeless and relevant.

Kolida Babo‘s Spirits of Mauronoros is not just an album; it’s an immersive experience that speaks to the soul of a forgotten past while resonating deeply in the present.